Atrial Tachycardia

What is Atrial Tachycardia?

Atrial tachycardia (AT) is a type of heart arrhythmia that causes your heart to beat 100 to 300 times each minute. A normal heart rate at rest is 60 to 80 beats each minute. AT develops because of problems with your heart’s electrical system. Your atria (top chambers) may send electrical signals that increase your heart rate, or the pathway of the electrical signal may be blocked. Your heart keeps sending signals to try to get past the block.

Symptoms of Atrial Tachycardia

You may feel any of the following:

Lightheaded, dizzy, or faint

Jumping or fluttering in your chest

More tired than usual

New or increased shortness of breath

Pain, pressure, or tightness in your chest

The need to urinate more often than usual

risks of Atrial Tachycardia

Without treatment, your symptoms may get worse. Your heart may not be able to pump enough blood to supply oxygen to the rest of your body. You may get a blood clot. The clot can break loose and travel to your lungs or brain. A blood clot can cause you to have a stroke. Your heart may weaken and not work properly. You are also at a higher risk for a heart attack and heart failure.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are suffering from atrial tachycardia, you should learn more about your treatment options. Call 205.510.5000 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Macy C. Smith. Dr. Smith serves Birmingham, Alabama and surrounding areas.